Salvation Army will provide Christmas meals for 1,800 San Diegans

SAN DIEGO (KUSI) – On Christmas Day, more than 1,000 people enjoyed a traditional Christmas dinner in downtown San Diego. The invitation came from the Salvation Army.

Making spirits bright, the Salvation Army has been hosting Christmas dinner for 31 years. It’s a tradition that welcomes everyone to the table to fill hunger for connection and community.

No one should have to spend Christmas alone, but that is the reason philanthropist Joan Kroc invited hundreds of people to the First Salvation Army Christmas dinner back in 1983.

“There are so many different people here, that all kind of blend together,” he said.

Jim O’Leary shows up every Christmas to volunteer.

“I got involved ten years ago. I come for Thanksgiving and Christmas dinner. I enjoy it,” he said.

The holiday dinner at Golden Hall brings all sorts of San Diegans from all walks of life to a common table to celebrate together, to feed the body, and to feed the soul.